A New York congressman is declaring partial victory in his campaign to force the Palestinian delegation to the UN to leave the US. "They should start packing their little Palestinian terrorist bags," Anthony Weiner said after the House of Representatives passed a bill banning financial aid to the Palestinian Authority.

An amendment introduced by Mr Weiner outlaws the Palestinian UN mission on Manhattan's upper east side. But even if the amendment passes the Senate, the president can block it.

Palestinian offices in the US must apply for a waiver every six months.